Via Sky News:
A large earthquake has struck Iran, with reports of tremors felt in India and across the Middle East.
The US Geological Survey said the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.8 - strong enough to cause major damage to buildings.
It is believed to have happened close to the border with Pakistan, an area prone to tectonic activity.
Strong tremors were felt across the Middle East and in the Indian capital New Delhi, where witnesses said tall buildings shook, sending people running into the streets.
The earthquake struck at 1044GMT, according to USGS. The epicentre was 15km from the surface, with tremors felt in India, Doha and Afghanistan.
Iran's Press TV reports at least 40 people killed by 7.8 quake http://t.co/nAJM6SPjlw
Iran's Press TV reports at least 40 people killed by 7.8 quake http://t.co/nAJM6SPjlw-- Anthony De Rosa
Iran quake epicentre reported 86km east of Khash & 192km south-east of Zahedan. It's the Sistan-Baluchistan province, one of Iran's poorest
Iran quake epicentre reported 86km east of Khash & 192km south-east of Zahedan. It's the Sistan-Baluchistan province, one of Iran's poorest-- Jerome Taylor
The two largest cities near the #earthquake epicenter, Saravan and Khash have a combined population of 400.000. #Iran
The two largest cities near the #earthquake epicenter, Saravan and Khash have a combined population of 400.000. #Iran-- Thomas Erdbrink
26,000 died in Bam RT @julianborger Iran earthquake bigger in magnitude than Bam in 2003, but in more remote area
26,000 died in Bam RT @julianborger Iran earthquake bigger in magnitude than Bam in 2003, but in more remote area-- Claire Phipps
This part of the middle-east is notorious for seismic activity. At least 37 people were killed and 850 wounded in a 6.3 magnitude quake in south-west Iran on 10 April.
Update, April 16th, 8:30 a.m.: Iran's state media is reporting at least 40 killed by the earthquake.
At least 40 killed by earthquake near Iran-Pakistan border. Magnitude measured at 7.5 by Iran agency. http://t.co/y6TsiXCoCt
